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Shadowvale #2
The Vampire's Cursed Kiss
Shadowvale isn’t your typical small town America. The sun never shines, the gates decide who enters, magic abounds, and every resident bears some kind of curse.
Vampire Constantin Thibodeaux was cured of his sun "allergy" when he moved to Shadowvale. Now he runs the local bookstore, which is really just a sideline to filling his own library. Books, unlike people, are far more forgiving of his prickly nature. But he doesn’t care if people don’t like him. He is who he is. And he’s happy. Well, he’s content. Okay, he’s…fine.
Sprite and all around party girl Andromeda Merriweather loves her carefree life – or at least she did until her sister cursed her into a magical time out. Thankfully, she’s just been set free by a totally hot, but kind of grumpy vampire. Too bad this handsome grouch now holds the key to her freedom, something she’ll only get if he agrees to abide by the rules of her curse.
Constantin isn’t interested in the terms and conditions Andromeda gives him, until he needs her to be his temporary girlfriend to shut his brother up. Then Constantin agrees. But what happens after a surprisingly fun evening creates brand new problems for both of them. Sure, two opposites can attract, but will that attraction last? Or are they both too cursed to give love a chance?
Vampire Constantin Thibodeaux was cured of his sun "allergy" when he moved to Shadowvale. Now he runs the local bookstore, which is really just a sideline to filling his own library. Books, unlike people, are far more forgiving of his prickly nature. But he doesn’t care if people don’t like him. He is who he is. And he’s happy. Well, he’s content. Okay, he’s…fine.
Sprite and all around party girl Andromeda Merriweather loves her carefree life – or at least she did until her sister cursed her into a magical time out. Thankfully, she’s just been set free by a totally hot, but kind of grumpy vampire. Too bad this handsome grouch now holds the key to her freedom, something she’ll only get if he agrees to abide by the rules of her curse.
Constantin isn’t interested in the terms and conditions Andromeda gives him, until he needs her to be his temporary girlfriend to shut his brother up. Then Constantin agrees. But what happens after a surprisingly fun evening creates brand new problems for both of them. Sure, two opposites can attract, but will that attraction last? Or are they both too cursed to give love a chance?
236 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 24, 2019
419 people are currently reading
644 people want to read
About the author
Kristen Painter
185 books3,419 followersKristen Painter likes to balance her obsessions with shoes and cats by making the lives of her characters miserable and surprising her readers with interesting twists. She currently writes award-winning paranormal romance, paranormal women's fiction, and cozy mysteries. The former college English teacher can often be found on twitter @Kristen_Painter, Facebook at www.facebook.com/KristenPainterAuthor where she loves to interact with readers and her blog: http://kristenpainter.com/blog/.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 137 reviews
July 13, 2024
Vampire Konstantin has been living a lonely existence running his bookstore in Shadowvale. His brother has always been the cool one in the family and he’s still not quite over a bad breakup. When he opens a book from a delivery and a woman pops out, a sprite who’s been cursed, it could be his chance to have a break from loneliness. She needs three kisses to break the curse. And she can’t leave his side. Andromeda (Andi) was cursed by her sister. Her wings are now gone. And there may be more to the curse than she’s letting on. This was a sweet, simple romance. I enjoy magical Shadowvale where supernaturals can be themselves without danger from humans and life is lighters. Andi and Konstantin were cute together.
June 22, 2019
The Vampire’s Cursed Kiss by Kristen Painter
2nd book in the Shadowvale series. A town that hides itself from the world, it’s inhabitants either cursed or of a paranormal nature.
A paranormal (clean) romance.
A bit of a second life chance for the heroine. She was cursed into a book by her sister, and now that’s she out, she’s more appreciative of her opportunities and more conscious of Con’s feelings. I admire her ethics actually. I can’t expand on that without a spoiler but will say I really like her.
Storyline: The town of Shadowvale was created by a witch for her vampire lover. It is always overcast so vampires are safe day-walking.
Andromeda has been cursed into a book by her sister. The vampire that opens the book is stuck with her until he falls in love with her. But Andi doesn’t tell him this details. Who wants to be pressured into love?
Sugar Skull Books, June 2019
2nd book in the Shadowvale series. A town that hides itself from the world, it’s inhabitants either cursed or of a paranormal nature.
A paranormal (clean) romance.
A bit of a second life chance for the heroine. She was cursed into a book by her sister, and now that’s she out, she’s more appreciative of her opportunities and more conscious of Con’s feelings. I admire her ethics actually. I can’t expand on that without a spoiler but will say I really like her.
Storyline: The town of Shadowvale was created by a witch for her vampire lover. It is always overcast so vampires are safe day-walking.
Andromeda has been cursed into a book by her sister. The vampire that opens the book is stuck with her until he falls in love with her. But Andi doesn’t tell him this details. Who wants to be pressured into love?
Sugar Skull Books, June 2019
May 30, 2019
I’m loving this series! The main characters in this book are so amazing. Andi is a strong woman without being too strong. I just loved her personality. And Constantin, or Con for short, is a growly sort of vampire who just wants to be left alone. Being hurt one time by live was enough for him. But how is he going to get away from the woman that pops out of an old book he just purchased? After all, a spell was cast on her so she is now stuck with the one who opens the book she was cursed to be trapped in. But this is Shadowvale, the place where the cursed are always welcome.
I also loved Con’s brother, Val. I hope he gets a book soon. He’s quickly becoming my favorite character. I don’t know how Kristen does it, but she always brings so many characters to life with individual personality.
I also loved Con’s brother, Val. I hope he gets a book soon. He’s quickly becoming my favorite character. I don’t know how Kristen does it, but she always brings so many characters to life with individual personality.
May 6, 2020
actual rate 3 1/2
I enjoyed this read. The flow of the story was light and fun and was a very easy quick read. In tyerms of content, I really enjoy being back in shadowvale and again the characters were likeable and fun. It was very much along the formula of this genre and this felt a little more generic than normal in parts but overall I enjoyed the read and will continue reading on in this series.
I enjoyed this read. The flow of the story was light and fun and was a very easy quick read. In tyerms of content, I really enjoy being back in shadowvale and again the characters were likeable and fun. It was very much along the formula of this genre and this felt a little more generic than normal in parts but overall I enjoyed the read and will continue reading on in this series.
June 27, 2019
This is the second book in the new Shadowvale series but like the Nocturne Falls books each of these would work as a stand alone. Personally I like the extra little nods and knowledge that you have if you read them in order - but jumping in here wouldn't leave any new readers confused.
So on to the story. Well let's be honest here - if you are going to set up your main guy as a vampire that owns a bookstore and loves to read? I mean what else do you really need to know. Even if I had never heard of this author that would be enough to get me to open the cover. (Yes I may be a little fickle - but hey I know what I like)
That being said I really did love this. The story just flew by and had enough little twists to keep me guessing. It has all the things I have come to expect from a Kristen Painter book, amazing character detail, including the secondary characters, which I personally feel can make or break a book, a quirky town, and a little mystery that gets wrapped up so NO CLIFFHANGERS!
I can't wait for book 3 to release. Shadowvale is definitely a new favorite place to hang out!
An easy 5 stars from me! V""V
So on to the story. Well let's be honest here - if you are going to set up your main guy as a vampire that owns a bookstore and loves to read? I mean what else do you really need to know. Even if I had never heard of this author that would be enough to get me to open the cover. (Yes I may be a little fickle - but hey I know what I like)
That being said I really did love this. The story just flew by and had enough little twists to keep me guessing. It has all the things I have come to expect from a Kristen Painter book, amazing character detail, including the secondary characters, which I personally feel can make or break a book, a quirky town, and a little mystery that gets wrapped up so NO CLIFFHANGERS!
I can't wait for book 3 to release. Shadowvale is definitely a new favorite place to hang out!
An easy 5 stars from me! V""V
January 13, 2020
When I read the first book of this series I thought, what a waste. The writer creates this exciting world where legends and fairytale creatures live in harmony, where the daughter of Famine runs a bakery and gives out free food... where the powerful and heartbroken witch Amelia protects all who seek protection... She builds this charming, lovely place and then she does absolutely nothing with it but uses it as a background for a moronic, corny little romance. But it was light and funny and it’s been decades since I read a corny little romance so I said okay, let’s try another one.
This book started light and funny too, until it became utterly infuriating. The whole little mermaid-ish gesture of giving up her wings for one more chance to start over with the guy while he was refusing to hear any explanation, throwing childish tantrums repeating “I’m done with you, I’m done with love” made my head explode. What can you do with such a baby then but to marry him after 2 days of knowing him? Seriously!
This book started light and funny too, until it became utterly infuriating. The whole little mermaid-ish gesture of giving up her wings for one more chance to start over with the guy while he was refusing to hear any explanation, throwing childish tantrums repeating “I’m done with you, I’m done with love” made my head explode. What can you do with such a baby then but to marry him after 2 days of knowing him? Seriously!
December 9, 2019
The lead male character owns and runs a bookstore. And is a vampire, but lives in a certain small town that has taken care of the ‘can’t be in sunlight’ issue. Not that he’s big on going outdoors. But still. Less risk of exploding and stuff.
Book opens with him examining ‘new’ purchases. Which includes a book that looks like the kind no one on earth would have any desire to ever read. Him being him, he opens it and begins reading it. Whereupon a woman pops out of it. She was cursed, you see, into the book. Required certain things to get her released. Requires certain things to keep her released.
I didn’t particularly like the story, the characters, or . . . something something, but I do not specifically recall why I put this book on my 2.5 star shelf.
Rating: 2.5
December 9 2019
Book opens with him examining ‘new’ purchases. Which includes a book that looks like the kind no one on earth would have any desire to ever read. Him being him, he opens it and begins reading it. Whereupon a woman pops out of it. She was cursed, you see, into the book. Required certain things to get her released. Requires certain things to keep her released.
I didn’t particularly like the story, the characters, or . . . something something, but I do not specifically recall why I put this book on my 2.5 star shelf.
Rating: 2.5
December 9 2019
July 23, 2021
The Vampire's Cursed Kiss is the second book in the Shadowvale series by Kristen Painter. As per my review for book one, The Trouble with Witches, I have enjoyed other books by Ms Painter as they are typically light-hearted and fun, easy to read and not too intense. However, as painful as this is for me to say, I have really struggled to like this new series. The Vampire's Cursed Kiss is probably the weakest book I have read from Ms Painter and moving forward I will likely give it a miss should I decide to re-read the series.
If you have read Ms Painter's Nocturne Fall's series, there has been no tie in or common character that I have noted between the two series so don't expect to be hearing about other favourite characters from the Nocturne Fall's Universe. I am unsure if there are any plans in the future to tie together these two series and a part of me does hope that we will get something in later books. I have both read and listened to the audiobook of this story. With the Audio version, I had the same issue that I had with The Trouble with Witches, which is that Ms Painter has chosen to have the same narrator - B.J. Harrison, narrate both the Nocturne Falls and Shadowvale stories. Mr Harrison is a commendable narrator and I have always enjoyed listening to him. However, since these two series are not related, I would have enjoyed someone else voicing the characters. I kept finding myself thinking of Nocturne Falls characters whilst listening.
Now onto the book!
Shadowvale is a town that has been hidden from the normal human world. A place that has become home for humans as well as the supernatural and mythological creatures. Most who share this town seem to be cursed in one way or another which can cause all sorts of shenanigans and conflict. I love the idea of being able to bring different species into the one place and have them interact with each other. For example, there is a bakery that is owned and operated by the daughter of Famine (from The Four Horseman) and to get back at her father she gives away all the food for free.
Our main protagonists are Andromeda 'Andi' Merriweather (Sprite) and Constantin Thibodeaux (Vampire). They meet when Constantin opens a book called 'The Hidden History of Insane Asylums in 19th Century Europe' and Andi is released from it after being cursed into the book a year prior. Whilst we learn quickly that her sister is the one to have cursed Andi, we don't find out the why until fairly late in the book. Constantin doesn't have any time for Andi and pretty much tries to shove her out the door as soon as she appears, but there is more to the curse than just being stuck in a horrible book for the past year. Andi needs to spend time with Constantin in order to fulfil the rest of requirements so she does lie to him and tell him she needs 3 kisses spaced over 6 days that are given with free will and intent. She also informs him that there is an invisible tether that will keep her close to Constantin until the curse is broken or the week has elapsed and she ends up back in the book for all eternity.
He reluctantly allows her to stay and the first half of the book I enjoyed. They spend time together and get to know each other a little bit more. Andi who is a free spirit and very social helps Constantin get out and enjoy himself. Try new things. Forget about his old fiancé who stood him up on the day of the wedding. Move past his jealousy of his brother who he thinks everything comes easy to. He really seems to be loosening up a bit and allowing Andi to break down a lot of his barriers. However, that then all flips in the second half and he becomes a character that I loathed by the end.
Here is my problem, there is no time spent explaining the conditions of Andi's imprisonment within the book apart from a few throw away comments. Surely, being locked into a book about Insane Asylums from the 1900's would have been traumatic. Could she eat, could she sleep, how did she stay safe! Upon Andi's release we also learn that her sister has also taken away her wings, the source of her magic. She is pretty much human. Yet despite all this, it all falls to Andi to make things better for everyone. She is the one feeling bad, apologising and sacrificing everything in order to make things right. Constantin may have had a bad breakup in the past but that in no way gives him a free pass to treat ANYONE like he does Andi. Honestly, I don't think this couple should have ended up together. I would have much preferred Andi find someone who didn't act like a man-child and was willing to listen to her and appreciate everything she did.
In summary, the first half of the book is enjoyable, but the second half is very disappointing. I won’t be reading this one again and for new readers I think you can skip this entry all together. At the time of writing this review I have already read book 3 and book 4 in the series and those are much better instalments to move onto.
If you have read Ms Painter's Nocturne Fall's series, there has been no tie in or common character that I have noted between the two series so don't expect to be hearing about other favourite characters from the Nocturne Fall's Universe. I am unsure if there are any plans in the future to tie together these two series and a part of me does hope that we will get something in later books. I have both read and listened to the audiobook of this story. With the Audio version, I had the same issue that I had with The Trouble with Witches, which is that Ms Painter has chosen to have the same narrator - B.J. Harrison, narrate both the Nocturne Falls and Shadowvale stories. Mr Harrison is a commendable narrator and I have always enjoyed listening to him. However, since these two series are not related, I would have enjoyed someone else voicing the characters. I kept finding myself thinking of Nocturne Falls characters whilst listening.
Now onto the book!
Shadowvale is a town that has been hidden from the normal human world. A place that has become home for humans as well as the supernatural and mythological creatures. Most who share this town seem to be cursed in one way or another which can cause all sorts of shenanigans and conflict. I love the idea of being able to bring different species into the one place and have them interact with each other. For example, there is a bakery that is owned and operated by the daughter of Famine (from The Four Horseman) and to get back at her father she gives away all the food for free.
Our main protagonists are Andromeda 'Andi' Merriweather (Sprite) and Constantin Thibodeaux (Vampire). They meet when Constantin opens a book called 'The Hidden History of Insane Asylums in 19th Century Europe' and Andi is released from it after being cursed into the book a year prior. Whilst we learn quickly that her sister is the one to have cursed Andi, we don't find out the why until fairly late in the book. Constantin doesn't have any time for Andi and pretty much tries to shove her out the door as soon as she appears, but there is more to the curse than just being stuck in a horrible book for the past year. Andi needs to spend time with Constantin in order to fulfil the rest of requirements so she does lie to him and tell him she needs 3 kisses spaced over 6 days that are given with free will and intent. She also informs him that there is an invisible tether that will keep her close to Constantin until the curse is broken or the week has elapsed and she ends up back in the book for all eternity.
He reluctantly allows her to stay and the first half of the book I enjoyed. They spend time together and get to know each other a little bit more. Andi who is a free spirit and very social helps Constantin get out and enjoy himself. Try new things. Forget about his old fiancé who stood him up on the day of the wedding. Move past his jealousy of his brother who he thinks everything comes easy to. He really seems to be loosening up a bit and allowing Andi to break down a lot of his barriers. However, that then all flips in the second half and he becomes a character that I loathed by the end.
Here is my problem, there is no time spent explaining the conditions of Andi's imprisonment within the book apart from a few throw away comments. Surely, being locked into a book about Insane Asylums from the 1900's would have been traumatic. Could she eat, could she sleep, how did she stay safe! Upon Andi's release we also learn that her sister has also taken away her wings, the source of her magic. She is pretty much human. Yet despite all this, it all falls to Andi to make things better for everyone. She is the one feeling bad, apologising and sacrificing everything in order to make things right. Constantin may have had a bad breakup in the past but that in no way gives him a free pass to treat ANYONE like he does Andi. Honestly, I don't think this couple should have ended up together. I would have much preferred Andi find someone who didn't act like a man-child and was willing to listen to her and appreciate everything she did.
In summary, the first half of the book is enjoyable, but the second half is very disappointing. I won’t be reading this one again and for new readers I think you can skip this entry all together. At the time of writing this review I have already read book 3 and book 4 in the series and those are much better instalments to move onto.
September 26, 2024
Second in the Shadowvale cozy and humorous paranormal romance series and revolving around the small town of Shadowvale in the Carolinas that never sees sunlight. The couple focus is on Andromeda Merriweather and Constantin Thibodeaux.
My Take
How can you not love The Vampire's Cursed Kiss? It's about a book shop of the latest and sometimes the oldest books. Constantin's biggest problem is restricting his desire to take them all home. I can so understand that, lol. Although . . . he doesn't carry romances. Hmmm . . .
Painter has created an interesting town, one where vampires can daywalk because Shadowvale is always overcast.
Andi has had some interesting experiences . . . well, besides being cursed into a book about nuthouses. Her sister has set up some nasty requirements before Andi can be released from her curse, and Andi is doing her best to not scare off her might-be rescuer.
Painter uses third person dual protagonist point-of-view from Andi's and Constantin's perspective, so we hear every thought they have and experience every feeling they have.
There are two conflicts: Andi being temporarily released with her doing her best to escape the curse completely, without telling Constantin what has to happen. We also learn the value of wings for sprites. Eeek. Her character arc finds her evaluating her past behaviors and coming to understand what's wrong with some of her actions while appreciating others. Her sister has her own arc, coming to terms with her negative feelings about Andi and why. Constantin's issue is his envy of his brother and his broken heart over his ex-fiancée. Andi and Cassi have the same problem, which is slowly revealed in the story. Very slowly . . .
It'll lead to an interesting swap of perspectives, inspiring the other. Advice we could all use.
Painter is such a tease about what ticked Cassi off. Arghh. I do like Andi's response to Miranda's nastiness. Hee-hee. That Painter sure does come up with some alarming scenarios. Hidden threats and challenges.
Painter also picks away at bigotry noting how safe Shadowvale is for the supernatural. Everyone can be who they are.
There's low-key action with lots of character-driven angst among the primary characters. Both parties have lessons to learn and understandings to arrive at. Painter keeps to the point, although all the angst can be a bit much.
Andi sure got lucky when she was finally released from her bookish prison! She was even luckier when Constantin freaked out when Valentino invited him to Club 42. To see his ex-fiancée sing.
He can't. He simply can't let Miranda see how much he still loves her, and he asks Andi to be his temporary girlfriend. Oh yeah. It fits right in with Andi's plans.
But what happens after a surprisingly fun evening creates brand new problems for both of them?
The Characters
The well-traveled party girl, Andromeda "Andi" Merriweather, a sprite, came out of The Hidden History of Insane Asylums in 19th Century Europe into which she was cursed. Cassi is an event planner based in Paris. Their mother was a flighty woman; their grandmother is the one who raised the girls. Rolph had been Cassi's boyfriend . . . until Andi.
The nearly 200-year-old Constantin Thibodeaux is a vampire who owns the Gilded Page, a book store. Chloe is Constantin's puffy white fluff of a cat. Fletcher, another vampire, is his only employee. Gracie Evermore is his bookkeeper.
Valentino is Constantin's flamboyant brother who runs Club 42, a jazz club. Juliette is Constantin's sister who lives in town; the rest of his family lies in Bayou Orleans — a little bit of home. Daniella is another sister who works her greenhouses. Their mother, Josephine, can be stunningly brutal; their father, William, tempers her moods. Sounds like William is a good architect as well. Great-uncle Pasqual had been Amelia's inspiration for Shadowvale . . . until he done her wrong.
Cousin Isabelle sings at Club 42. Another singer has been invited to temporarily replace Isabelle, Miranda Moore, Constantin's ex. Brin and Zane work at Club 42.
Shadowvale is . . .
. . . a small town created by Amelia Marchand, a very powerful witch. Beckett is Amelia's majordomo. Thoreau is the tiger who wanders around Amelia's estate. Nasha Black owns the Black Horse bakery that also serves up great coffee. Nasha's dad is Famine of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. Emeranth is a barista at the bakery. Parks & Main is a clothing boutique where Lydia Parks works. Stella owns Stella's Bargain Bin, which is Andi's preferred shopping venue. Della is Stella's twin sister. The Sunshine Diner is a great place to get a sunlight fix. Davey is a waiter at the diner. The Creamatorium has some fantastic sounding ice cream. Finding Nemo is owned by Nemo, a merman, with great food. The Table is another good restaurant. The Amethyst Inn is a Victorian B&B.
Arnie delivers to the Gilded Page. Lena Scott, a witch; Emeranth Greer, Amelia's niece; Nala Gallagher, a bored banshee; and, the boring Reston Bellwether are some of Constantin's many customers. Snow White prefers to be called Bianca Wynters (and she's a vampire!); she runs the Red Apple Bed and Breakfast. Rico Martinez is the alpha of the werewolf pack. Sirena, a mermaid, owns Bombshell's Bath & Beauty. Dr Jekyll is the local practitioner.
Chuck had been Andi's roommate in Paris. A "neighbor" in the bayou is Brutus, a humongous gator. Marcus, a centaur, is no longer Juliette's boyfriend.
The Cover and Title
The cover has a deep blue background that includes the greenery with its purple flowers behind an antiqued gold sentient gate against a glowing turquoise opening. In front of the gate is a small vignette of an old red leather book, a key, and a spooky looking lock in the center of the book. At the very top is an info blurb in turquoise. The author's name is right below that in white. At the bottom, under the book, is the title in a prismatic blue and purple. The series info is worked into the filigree of the gate.
The title is what Constantin sees as The Vampire's Cursed Kiss.
My Take
How can you not love The Vampire's Cursed Kiss? It's about a book shop of the latest and sometimes the oldest books. Constantin's biggest problem is restricting his desire to take them all home. I can so understand that, lol. Although . . . he doesn't carry romances. Hmmm . . .
Painter has created an interesting town, one where vampires can daywalk because Shadowvale is always overcast.
Andi has had some interesting experiences . . . well, besides being cursed into a book about nuthouses. Her sister has set up some nasty requirements before Andi can be released from her curse, and Andi is doing her best to not scare off her might-be rescuer.
Painter uses third person dual protagonist point-of-view from Andi's and Constantin's perspective, so we hear every thought they have and experience every feeling they have.
There are two conflicts: Andi being temporarily released with her doing her best to escape the curse completely, without telling Constantin what has to happen. We also learn the value of wings for sprites. Eeek. Her character arc finds her evaluating her past behaviors and coming to understand what's wrong with some of her actions while appreciating others. Her sister has her own arc, coming to terms with her negative feelings about Andi and why. Constantin's issue is his envy of his brother and his broken heart over his ex-fiancée. Andi and Cassi have the same problem, which is slowly revealed in the story. Very slowly . . .
It'll lead to an interesting swap of perspectives, inspiring the other. Advice we could all use.
Painter is such a tease about what ticked Cassi off. Arghh. I do like Andi's response to Miranda's nastiness. Hee-hee. That Painter sure does come up with some alarming scenarios. Hidden threats and challenges.
Painter also picks away at bigotry noting how safe Shadowvale is for the supernatural. Everyone can be who they are.
There's low-key action with lots of character-driven angst among the primary characters. Both parties have lessons to learn and understandings to arrive at. Painter keeps to the point, although all the angst can be a bit much.
"A life of apathetic leisure didn't really give you the fulfillment of accomplishing anything."The Story
Andi sure got lucky when she was finally released from her bookish prison! She was even luckier when Constantin freaked out when Valentino invited him to Club 42. To see his ex-fiancée sing.
He can't. He simply can't let Miranda see how much he still loves her, and he asks Andi to be his temporary girlfriend. Oh yeah. It fits right in with Andi's plans.
But what happens after a surprisingly fun evening creates brand new problems for both of them?
The Characters
The well-traveled party girl, Andromeda "Andi" Merriweather, a sprite, came out of The Hidden History of Insane Asylums in 19th Century Europe into which she was cursed. Cassi is an event planner based in Paris. Their mother was a flighty woman; their grandmother is the one who raised the girls. Rolph had been Cassi's boyfriend . . . until Andi.
The nearly 200-year-old Constantin Thibodeaux is a vampire who owns the Gilded Page, a book store. Chloe is Constantin's puffy white fluff of a cat. Fletcher, another vampire, is his only employee. Gracie Evermore is his bookkeeper.
Valentino is Constantin's flamboyant brother who runs Club 42, a jazz club. Juliette is Constantin's sister who lives in town; the rest of his family lies in Bayou Orleans — a little bit of home. Daniella is another sister who works her greenhouses. Their mother, Josephine, can be stunningly brutal; their father, William, tempers her moods. Sounds like William is a good architect as well. Great-uncle Pasqual had been Amelia's inspiration for Shadowvale . . . until he done her wrong.
Cousin Isabelle sings at Club 42. Another singer has been invited to temporarily replace Isabelle, Miranda Moore, Constantin's ex. Brin and Zane work at Club 42.
Shadowvale is . . .
. . . a small town created by Amelia Marchand, a very powerful witch. Beckett is Amelia's majordomo. Thoreau is the tiger who wanders around Amelia's estate. Nasha Black owns the Black Horse bakery that also serves up great coffee. Nasha's dad is Famine of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. Emeranth is a barista at the bakery. Parks & Main is a clothing boutique where Lydia Parks works. Stella owns Stella's Bargain Bin, which is Andi's preferred shopping venue. Della is Stella's twin sister. The Sunshine Diner is a great place to get a sunlight fix. Davey is a waiter at the diner. The Creamatorium has some fantastic sounding ice cream. Finding Nemo is owned by Nemo, a merman, with great food. The Table is another good restaurant. The Amethyst Inn is a Victorian B&B.
Arnie delivers to the Gilded Page. Lena Scott, a witch; Emeranth Greer, Amelia's niece; Nala Gallagher, a bored banshee; and, the boring Reston Bellwether are some of Constantin's many customers. Snow White prefers to be called Bianca Wynters (and she's a vampire!); she runs the Red Apple Bed and Breakfast. Rico Martinez is the alpha of the werewolf pack. Sirena, a mermaid, owns Bombshell's Bath & Beauty. Dr Jekyll is the local practitioner.
Chuck had been Andi's roommate in Paris. A "neighbor" in the bayou is Brutus, a humongous gator. Marcus, a centaur, is no longer Juliette's boyfriend.
The Cover and Title
The cover has a deep blue background that includes the greenery with its purple flowers behind an antiqued gold sentient gate against a glowing turquoise opening. In front of the gate is a small vignette of an old red leather book, a key, and a spooky looking lock in the center of the book. At the very top is an info blurb in turquoise. The author's name is right below that in white. At the bottom, under the book, is the title in a prismatic blue and purple. The series info is worked into the filigree of the gate.
The title is what Constantin sees as The Vampire's Cursed Kiss.
July 21, 2022
3 Stars. nThe Vampire’s Cursed Kiss is book 2 in the Shadowvale series. I feel about the same as I did after book 1. The premise is great. The town and world building is great. The magic is really cool. The execution of the story is underwhelming. It was a good book and I enjoyed it, but there was nothing great about it or that sets it apart from other books. I liked the main female character, Andromeda, a Sprite. The main male character is Constantin, a vampire. I found him to be annoyingly damaged and immature. His temper tantrum was obnoxious and over the top. When the big drama happened to pull them apart, Andy should have just left Con entirely after he behaved the way he did. He is wonderful except when he’s not. I’ll give book 3 a try and take it from there. The narrator did a good job. He is easy to listen to.
February 26, 2023
These books are just easy, sweet, and charming. As with the first one it got just slightly slower in the third quarter, and picked back up in the fourth quarter. I have a hard time finding romances that I like, but this series has the right mix of humor and HEA, in a delightful paranormal setting, to fit my tastes.
June 22, 2019
I loved it!! This was a great addition to the Shadowvale series! The characters are very well written and you really get to feel for them! I loved the witchy twists so much! I had a hard time putting this one down, and totally want more! I can’t wait to read the next installment in the series!!
June 11, 2019
Kristen hits another home run with the second in the Shadowvale series. This book is centered around Constantin and Andromeda. Upon unlikely circumstances, the two meet and quickly fall for each other. Then, because of a curse, Andromeda disappears from Shadowvale, breaking Constantin’s heart. Will the two find each other again? Only you can find out.
August 6, 2019
The Vampire's Cursed Kiss is the second in the Shadowvale series by Kristen Painter. I recommend you first read The Trouble With Witches before reading this book as you may feel like you're missing something by starting with this book.
Constantin and Andromeda are complete opposites on paper, and their romance is one that is entertaining. Add to the mix Constantin's brother Val and you have an epically fun read.
I enjoyed learning more about Shadowvale and the residents of the town. I loved that Constantin is a bibliophile, there aren't enough of those for us fellow bibliophiles out there.
I was able to get into the book a lot quicker than I was the previous book, and hope to see more Shadowvale books soon.
Constantin and Andromeda are complete opposites on paper, and their romance is one that is entertaining. Add to the mix Constantin's brother Val and you have an epically fun read.
I enjoyed learning more about Shadowvale and the residents of the town. I loved that Constantin is a bibliophile, there aren't enough of those for us fellow bibliophiles out there.
I was able to get into the book a lot quicker than I was the previous book, and hope to see more Shadowvale books soon.
October 27, 2022
3 stars.
The author has the knack for creating some very quirky paranormal characters. This time our staid vampire bookshop owner hero managed to break our cursed free-spirited sprite heroine from a dusty old tome. However, the curse wasn't fully broken unless our hero can be made to fall genuinely in love with her.
There's a bit of interactions with various citizens of Shadowvale and the hero's vampiric family (does this means vampires are born and not made?) but the angst and subsequent misunderstanding between the H/h are very easily resolved.
I'm afraid I'm finding this series a bit too light for me.
The author has the knack for creating some very quirky paranormal characters. This time our staid vampire bookshop owner hero managed to break our cursed free-spirited sprite heroine from a dusty old tome. However, the curse wasn't fully broken unless our hero can be made to fall genuinely in love with her.
There's a bit of interactions with various citizens of Shadowvale and the hero's vampiric family (does this means vampires are born and not made?) but the angst and subsequent misunderstanding between the H/h are very easily resolved.
I'm afraid I'm finding this series a bit too light for me.
June 24, 2019
This is a terrific book that had me wanting to keep reading straight through til the end. The author has created an interesting world with fascinating characters that I enjoy getting to know. I’ve been left wanting more and look forward to reading more in this series.
July 23, 2022
I enjoyed this in audio.
June 29, 2019
A mostly cute story, until he is so terrible to her. That was way beyond a mere disagreement - she should run, not walk, from someone with such a massive temper overreaction to a situation. Disappointing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 2, 2019
Another great book by this arthor! The Vampire's Kiss is the second title in the Shadowvale series Loved it! Constantin Thibodeaux is a vampire that runs a book store and has had his heart broken in the past. Andromeda Merriweather is a sprite that has been cursed by her sister and lands in his life, via a book! It was fun to read about their time together .great characters and details in this one. Nice to have some of the characters from the first book show up in the second. Really kept me interested in the story was able to loose my sef for awhile.look forward to reading more about Shadowvale.
January 26, 2023
I really enjoyed this book! I've read other books by this author, including from this series and have enjoyed all of them. Kristen Painter is definitely one of my favourite authors for paranormal fiction.
This series, about a magical town where supernaturals can live safely is some very clever and creative world-building. There is so much going on in the town with a variety of supernatural citizens and there are lots of interesting characters and other stories to learn about and look forward to.
This story - about Andi and Con - was lovely. There was drama, suspense, romance, broken hearts, learning, growing and the requisite happily ever after. I loved every minute of this story, and definitely plan to continue on reading other books in this series and getting to know more of the residents of Shadowvale. Highly recommend for lovers of paranormal fiction!!
This series, about a magical town where supernaturals can live safely is some very clever and creative world-building. There is so much going on in the town with a variety of supernatural citizens and there are lots of interesting characters and other stories to learn about and look forward to.
This story - about Andi and Con - was lovely. There was drama, suspense, romance, broken hearts, learning, growing and the requisite happily ever after. I loved every minute of this story, and definitely plan to continue on reading other books in this series and getting to know more of the residents of Shadowvale. Highly recommend for lovers of paranormal fiction!!
January 17, 2023
Series: Shadowvale #2
Rating: 4 stars - It was really good
Vampire Constantin Thibodeaux is content with his life in Shadowvale. He prefers his books in his bookstore over people. But his love of books betrays him when he opens a book to and a cursed sprite appears. Andromeda Merriweather was cursed by her sister and now needs Constatin’s help to get rid of the curse. He isn’t interested in helping her until he needs a temporary girlfriend to shut his brother up.
I quite enjoyed this book. Constantin is a vampire (and male) version of me. I prefer books over people and don’t trust easily. He is the grumpy bookstore owner who is hiding his soft side. I like that he works to change his life when he realizes how closed off he had gotten. People can change at any time and it's important to remember that.
Andromeda was the opposite of Con. She was a party girl who liked to have a good time, which is why she was cursed. She has changed though and is trying to be a more responsible person. Con shows her how to be a responsible adult, and she shows him how to let loose a little. They balance each other out and make a great team. I really hope we see more of them in future books.
Overall, I am still really loving this new series. Shadowvale, and the characters who live there, are fascinating and I just can’t help but want to know more about them. I can’t wait to read the next book and see what new curse will pop up.
This review was originally posted at Red-Haired Ash Reads.
Rating: 4 stars - It was really good
Vampire Constantin Thibodeaux is content with his life in Shadowvale. He prefers his books in his bookstore over people. But his love of books betrays him when he opens a book to and a cursed sprite appears. Andromeda Merriweather was cursed by her sister and now needs Constatin’s help to get rid of the curse. He isn’t interested in helping her until he needs a temporary girlfriend to shut his brother up.
I quite enjoyed this book. Constantin is a vampire (and male) version of me. I prefer books over people and don’t trust easily. He is the grumpy bookstore owner who is hiding his soft side. I like that he works to change his life when he realizes how closed off he had gotten. People can change at any time and it's important to remember that.
Andromeda was the opposite of Con. She was a party girl who liked to have a good time, which is why she was cursed. She has changed though and is trying to be a more responsible person. Con shows her how to be a responsible adult, and she shows him how to let loose a little. They balance each other out and make a great team. I really hope we see more of them in future books.
Overall, I am still really loving this new series. Shadowvale, and the characters who live there, are fascinating and I just can’t help but want to know more about them. I can’t wait to read the next book and see what new curse will pop up.
This review was originally posted at Red-Haired Ash Reads.
July 25, 2020
2020 bk 11. 2020 bk 248. A fun read that did the job of keeping me distracted while waiting at the doctor's office. Cute premise in which opposites do attract and do learn to bend and mold to each other's needs.
June 22, 2022
Favorite reread and series!
I love all stories written by Kristen Painter. She writes the best fantasy that’s fun and believable without being overwhelming or exhausting. Most fantasies spend so much world building or not enough that I can’t get into it or I can’t buy into it, Kristen has mastered this balance. Every story is unique, in every series. Some are so good I reread them every other year.
In every book she’s written you’ll find a perfect pace of story telling and believable and enjoyable world building and character development.
Every book has the perfect amount of mystery, struggle, heart ache, challenge etc.
Every book has a happy ending.
Every book refrains from unnecessarily foul language and profanity.
Every book shows a modest respect and privacy towards bedroom scenes in that she gives her characters those moments of intimacy the privacy they deserve. I’ve tried to read other stories that invoice the bedroom scenes and it not only makes me feel like a peeping tom, it often can feel cringe worthy to read through as well. I have ended so many booked or series early bc I couldn’t keep trying to jump over the sex scenes without feeling gross for even reading the scenes in between. I wish more authors understood that you can fade to black and that a good story isn’t required to include that area of a couple’s relationship. When I talk to my friends I want to hear about their joys, problems, and lessons learned along their journey in life, I don’t need a play by play of their bedroom life and I feel the same with book characters that in a way become my friends too. I would love to be real friends with all of Kristen’s characters and I so wish I could visit and vacation in both Shadowvale and Nocturne Falls. Seriously, a theme park needs to make a mini town designed after these books. It may take 50 or 100 years and will sadly be after I’m dead, but I believe if they ever made a TV series based on her book series the fandom would explode and then maybe a theme park could become a reality. And what an amazing thing that would be!
Last I have to share one of my favorite aspects of all of her books. Every book in every series has amazingly, mouth watering food descriptions which I cannot express how much I enjoy - maybe it’s bc I’m doing no sugar low carb / keto / intermittent fasting / Omad lol that I feel like I’m about to enjoy these delicious meals and indulge in scrumptious desserts without it any of the actual consumption, guilt, weight gain or stomach pains. I truly feel like my appetite is appeased while reading her stories and that is such a joy!
I decided to leave this detailed review on this book bc I just finished it after reading the “sucks to be me” series and decided to head back to Shadowvale after a quick visit last week in Nocturne Falls with Willa and Nick (in a gargoyle gets his girl) and I will likely jump back into her frost series as I miss the princess Jayne but there has always been something about this cursed town and Amelia’s backstory and the mystical gates that protect the supernaturals in this town that I especially love and this story in particular is probably my favorite in the series with Forgettable and Moody as a tied close second. No wait the first taste of fire was really really good too. They are all amazing!!! Thank you Kristen for sharing your gift of creativity with the world and for being so classy and kind to your characters and fans. Love your work tremendously!
I love all stories written by Kristen Painter. She writes the best fantasy that’s fun and believable without being overwhelming or exhausting. Most fantasies spend so much world building or not enough that I can’t get into it or I can’t buy into it, Kristen has mastered this balance. Every story is unique, in every series. Some are so good I reread them every other year.
In every book she’s written you’ll find a perfect pace of story telling and believable and enjoyable world building and character development.
Every book has the perfect amount of mystery, struggle, heart ache, challenge etc.
Every book has a happy ending.
Every book refrains from unnecessarily foul language and profanity.
Every book shows a modest respect and privacy towards bedroom scenes in that she gives her characters those moments of intimacy the privacy they deserve. I’ve tried to read other stories that invoice the bedroom scenes and it not only makes me feel like a peeping tom, it often can feel cringe worthy to read through as well. I have ended so many booked or series early bc I couldn’t keep trying to jump over the sex scenes without feeling gross for even reading the scenes in between. I wish more authors understood that you can fade to black and that a good story isn’t required to include that area of a couple’s relationship. When I talk to my friends I want to hear about their joys, problems, and lessons learned along their journey in life, I don’t need a play by play of their bedroom life and I feel the same with book characters that in a way become my friends too. I would love to be real friends with all of Kristen’s characters and I so wish I could visit and vacation in both Shadowvale and Nocturne Falls. Seriously, a theme park needs to make a mini town designed after these books. It may take 50 or 100 years and will sadly be after I’m dead, but I believe if they ever made a TV series based on her book series the fandom would explode and then maybe a theme park could become a reality. And what an amazing thing that would be!
Last I have to share one of my favorite aspects of all of her books. Every book in every series has amazingly, mouth watering food descriptions which I cannot express how much I enjoy - maybe it’s bc I’m doing no sugar low carb / keto / intermittent fasting / Omad lol that I feel like I’m about to enjoy these delicious meals and indulge in scrumptious desserts without it any of the actual consumption, guilt, weight gain or stomach pains. I truly feel like my appetite is appeased while reading her stories and that is such a joy!
I decided to leave this detailed review on this book bc I just finished it after reading the “sucks to be me” series and decided to head back to Shadowvale after a quick visit last week in Nocturne Falls with Willa and Nick (in a gargoyle gets his girl) and I will likely jump back into her frost series as I miss the princess Jayne but there has always been something about this cursed town and Amelia’s backstory and the mystical gates that protect the supernaturals in this town that I especially love and this story in particular is probably my favorite in the series with Forgettable and Moody as a tied close second. No wait the first taste of fire was really really good too. They are all amazing!!! Thank you Kristen for sharing your gift of creativity with the world and for being so classy and kind to your characters and fans. Love your work tremendously!
December 2, 2020
I'm profoundly desapointed with this book, especially because 'I really liked the first one. The beginning is nice enough, a sprite is cursed by her sister into a really disturbing book, and she has a limited amount of time to get rid of the curse, or she is going back forever, to do that she needs the hero, who at the beginning seems to be a handsome, albeit cranky and boring vampire.
She thinks if he really knows what it takes to break the curse he is not going to help, and she is going back FOREVER, so she lies.
As we all can imagine, eventually they fall in love and eventually he finds out.
And here comes the part that really bothered me was how that was dealt with:
It was all so petty and stupid, so incredible immature, especially for such an old vampire, that is to say, it was a bullshit problem blown completely out of proportion, so I just gave up.
She thinks if he really knows what it takes to break the curse he is not going to help, and she is going back FOREVER, so she lies.
As we all can imagine, eventually they fall in love and eventually he finds out.
And here comes the part that really bothered me was how that was dealt with:
It was all so petty and stupid, so incredible immature, especially for such an old vampire, that is to say, it was a bullshit problem blown completely out of proportion, so I just gave up.
January 13, 2024
The Vampire’s Cursed Kiss is book two in the Shadowvale series by Kristen Painter and narrated by B.J. Harrison.
I’m not WOW’d by the series, but their is something about the Shadowvale series that keeps me coming back. I think it has to do with how light and easy going the story’s are. It’s a predictable read, but also has some sweet fun moments. I really enjoy the town of Shadowvale and how it came to be.
Constantin, is a vampire who owns a bookstore in town. He’s been burned by love before and so he’s given up on romance. Andromeda is a sprite with a free spirt. She’s found herself in a predicament and the only way out is to get Constantine to fall in love with her.
As things go the romance is predictable. We have our up’s and down’s, but in the end we get our HEA. I enjoyed Constantin’s family and Andromeda’s self assured attitude. Constantine was a sweet vampire until he had his little temper tantrum, then I wasn’t a big fan of him, but in the end it works out.
The author has a knack for creating quirky paranormal character’s and the town is interesting in its make up of citizens. The world-building is well done and the flow of the story is nice.
Audio: B.J. Harrison for some reason didn’t hit it off with me like the first book. He can do voices, but some just didn’t work for me in The Vampire’s Cursed Kiss. Manly the female voices didn’t sound feminine enough. He does bring out the personalties of the characters and keeps the story flowing along. I liked the audiobook.
The Vampire’s Cursed Kiss can be read/listened to as a stand-alone. It’s a light listen and enjoyable. I don’t think I’d do this series any other way, but in audio.
Rated: 3 Stars
I’m not WOW’d by the series, but their is something about the Shadowvale series that keeps me coming back. I think it has to do with how light and easy going the story’s are. It’s a predictable read, but also has some sweet fun moments. I really enjoy the town of Shadowvale and how it came to be.
Constantin, is a vampire who owns a bookstore in town. He’s been burned by love before and so he’s given up on romance. Andromeda is a sprite with a free spirt. She’s found herself in a predicament and the only way out is to get Constantine to fall in love with her.
As things go the romance is predictable. We have our up’s and down’s, but in the end we get our HEA. I enjoyed Constantin’s family and Andromeda’s self assured attitude. Constantine was a sweet vampire until he had his little temper tantrum, then I wasn’t a big fan of him, but in the end it works out.
The author has a knack for creating quirky paranormal character’s and the town is interesting in its make up of citizens. The world-building is well done and the flow of the story is nice.
Audio: B.J. Harrison for some reason didn’t hit it off with me like the first book. He can do voices, but some just didn’t work for me in The Vampire’s Cursed Kiss. Manly the female voices didn’t sound feminine enough. He does bring out the personalties of the characters and keeps the story flowing along. I liked the audiobook.
The Vampire’s Cursed Kiss can be read/listened to as a stand-alone. It’s a light listen and enjoyable. I don’t think I’d do this series any other way, but in audio.
Rated: 3 Stars
June 27, 2019
The Vampire’s Cursed Kiss by Kristen Painter is her second entry in the new Shadowvale Series. These books can be read alone, but there is so much more enjoyment to be had when you read them all, in order, and see little visits from characters in earlier books, or maybe sneak peeks at characters to come.
Andromeda, or Andi, is a free-spirited Sprite who does exactly what she wants, when she wants, regardless of the effect on people around her. Including her sister Cassi. But Cassi’s had enough, and endeavors to teach Andi a lesson.
Constantin Thibodeaux is a vampire living in Shadowvale, with a patch over his heart from an earlier relationship that went sour. Little did he know what one of his precious books was going to bring him.
Shadowvale is a town hidden, literally in the shadows, created by a powerful witch for the love of her life. The sacrifice required of the enormous amount of magic expended was great, but she was happy to do it for her loves sake. But he left her anyway, and she’s left in a town grown nearly sentient with the magic she put into it. It becomes home to those, human or supernatural, that cannot fit in, in the real world. In Shadowvale, everyone can be themselves, with no fears of reprisals.
As with Ms. Painter’s Nocturne Falls Series, Shadowvale is so detailed, so real, you find yourself wanting to plan a trip there. And her characters never let you down either. Like them or not, there is no question of what makes them tick. She makes you believe you can talk to them, touch them, and feel for them.
I cannot say enough about this book, or this new Series. It has it all, and you need to click this 5 star read NOW.
Andromeda, or Andi, is a free-spirited Sprite who does exactly what she wants, when she wants, regardless of the effect on people around her. Including her sister Cassi. But Cassi’s had enough, and endeavors to teach Andi a lesson.
Constantin Thibodeaux is a vampire living in Shadowvale, with a patch over his heart from an earlier relationship that went sour. Little did he know what one of his precious books was going to bring him.
Shadowvale is a town hidden, literally in the shadows, created by a powerful witch for the love of her life. The sacrifice required of the enormous amount of magic expended was great, but she was happy to do it for her loves sake. But he left her anyway, and she’s left in a town grown nearly sentient with the magic she put into it. It becomes home to those, human or supernatural, that cannot fit in, in the real world. In Shadowvale, everyone can be themselves, with no fears of reprisals.
As with Ms. Painter’s Nocturne Falls Series, Shadowvale is so detailed, so real, you find yourself wanting to plan a trip there. And her characters never let you down either. Like them or not, there is no question of what makes them tick. She makes you believe you can talk to them, touch them, and feel for them.
I cannot say enough about this book, or this new Series. It has it all, and you need to click this 5 star read NOW.
October 21, 2025
This was potentially going to be 4 stars until the last about 1/4 of the book.
I liked that this was totally clean. I read The Trouble with Witches last year and enjoyed it well enough to continue with the series, but it wasn't necessarily my favorite book. This book took place in Shadowvale, but is really a standalone. There are a couple of things that you learn in the first book that come into play in this book, but they are explained well enough that if you haven't read the first book, you will be okay. I actually did wish for a little more interaction with some of the characters from the first book. The first part of the story was clever and fun.
However...this time Painter went into the full-on you-lied-to-me trope. BLECH! I actually could see how this would be a natural part of this particular story, and I would have gotten over my dislike of that particular trope if it weren't for how awful Con became. I wanted to slap him and tell him to grow up and get over himself. I realize he had a difficult past, but that's no reason to turn into a horrible "person". The way it resolved felt a little forced to me as well. I was also left with a couple of unanswered questions. One of which was obvious -- I wanted more of a resolution for Andi. The other was more of a side question about Con.
I think Painter likes the you-lied-to-me trope, because as I read the synopsis of some of the other books, it looks like it might come up again. I will still continue with the series, but with some trepidation.
I liked that this was totally clean. I read The Trouble with Witches last year and enjoyed it well enough to continue with the series, but it wasn't necessarily my favorite book. This book took place in Shadowvale, but is really a standalone. There are a couple of things that you learn in the first book that come into play in this book, but they are explained well enough that if you haven't read the first book, you will be okay. I actually did wish for a little more interaction with some of the characters from the first book. The first part of the story was clever and fun.
However...this time Painter went into the full-on you-lied-to-me trope. BLECH! I actually could see how this would be a natural part of this particular story, and I would have gotten over my dislike of that particular trope if it weren't for how awful Con became. I wanted to slap him and tell him to grow up and get over himself. I realize he had a difficult past, but that's no reason to turn into a horrible "person". The way it resolved felt a little forced to me as well. I was also left with a couple of unanswered questions. One of which was obvious -- I wanted more of a resolution for Andi. The other was more of a side question about Con.
I think Painter likes the you-lied-to-me trope, because as I read the synopsis of some of the other books, it looks like it might come up again. I will still continue with the series, but with some trepidation.
February 19, 2023
“I was just thinking about how you’ve started smiling a lot more.”
He gave that a second of thought. “I have a reason to now.”
“You mean… me?”
He nodded. “You make me forget all the reasons I had to be in a bad mood.” 36%
🥹🥹
“So he was going to try harder with Andi. Even if that meant putting himself out there in a way that could result in him being hurt again.” 44%
😭😭
“I feel like a better person around him. Like I’m more than I thought I could be.” 70% that is love
"I know you left because of the curse's magic. And I understand why you didn't tell me the whole truth about the curse."
"You do?"
He nodded. "Completely. It could have ruined your chances of being freed of it."
"Go on.”
"Well, there's not much more to say except that I'm very sorry. And if you're still willing to give us another try, I would like that very much. But if you're not, I understand that, too. I don't think I deserve a second chance after how awful I was." 95%
Couldn’t you have understood that like millions times ago? It wasn’t that difficult.
Yikes this got really dumb. The plot just kept getting more drama just for the sake of it, literally just to keep the book from ending. At 50% when the curse was broken, and Andy came back to explain why she left (against her will, I may add) Con should have understood that it wasn’t on purpose that she hurt him, like c’mon, second half was ridiculous, (but I actually liked the senseless drama anyway)
He gave that a second of thought. “I have a reason to now.”
“You mean… me?”
He nodded. “You make me forget all the reasons I had to be in a bad mood.” 36%
🥹🥹
“So he was going to try harder with Andi. Even if that meant putting himself out there in a way that could result in him being hurt again.” 44%
😭😭
“I feel like a better person around him. Like I’m more than I thought I could be.” 70% that is love
"I know you left because of the curse's magic. And I understand why you didn't tell me the whole truth about the curse."
"You do?"
He nodded. "Completely. It could have ruined your chances of being freed of it."
"Go on.”
"Well, there's not much more to say except that I'm very sorry. And if you're still willing to give us another try, I would like that very much. But if you're not, I understand that, too. I don't think I deserve a second chance after how awful I was." 95%
Couldn’t you have understood that like millions times ago? It wasn’t that difficult.
Yikes this got really dumb. The plot just kept getting more drama just for the sake of it, literally just to keep the book from ending. At 50% when the curse was broken, and Andy came back to explain why she left (against her will, I may add) Con should have understood that it wasn’t on purpose that she hurt him, like c’mon, second half was ridiculous, (but I actually liked the senseless drama anyway)
January 28, 2025
It's been a while since I've spend some time in Shadowvale and hoo-boy is this a fun place. It has all sorts of supernatural individuals and all sorts of supernatural shenanigans going on.
This time around, Constantin is up. He's uptight, a little broody, and kind of withdrawn from the world. Well, as much as someone can be withdrawn who owns a popular bookstore in the center of town. Still, a broken engagement has left its mark on him and he's absolutely not interested in finding romance or a relationship or having anything to do with anyone who could potentially hurt him. Which works just fine, thank you, until he unleashes a little chaos into his life in the form of one cursed sprite.
Andromeda is...well, she's a party girl who doesn't always think of how her actions might hurt those around her. One hurt too many and her sister cursed her into a book and (after a little time had passed) Constantin is the lucky vampire who released her. Lucky for him, of course, because Andromeda shakes him out of his rut and has him daring to want things he'd closed his heart off to.
A catty (not literally) ex, complicated family dynamics (for both of them), a deep love of books, a vampire who desperately needed to step outside his comfort zone, and a lady who had to lose what was important to her before she realized how much she loved it. GOOD TIMES!
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
This time around, Constantin is up. He's uptight, a little broody, and kind of withdrawn from the world. Well, as much as someone can be withdrawn who owns a popular bookstore in the center of town. Still, a broken engagement has left its mark on him and he's absolutely not interested in finding romance or a relationship or having anything to do with anyone who could potentially hurt him. Which works just fine, thank you, until he unleashes a little chaos into his life in the form of one cursed sprite.
Andromeda is...well, she's a party girl who doesn't always think of how her actions might hurt those around her. One hurt too many and her sister cursed her into a book and (after a little time had passed) Constantin is the lucky vampire who released her. Lucky for him, of course, because Andromeda shakes him out of his rut and has him daring to want things he'd closed his heart off to.
A catty (not literally) ex, complicated family dynamics (for both of them), a deep love of books, a vampire who desperately needed to step outside his comfort zone, and a lady who had to lose what was important to her before she realized how much she loved it. GOOD TIMES!
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
June 25, 2019
This is a great book; this is the second book in the Shadowvale series written by Kristen Painter. Shadowvale is a town full of supernaturals and is protected by a magic gate that decides who gets to enter. Constantin Thibodeaux is a very old vampire who can live in Shadowvale because the sun is limited. He runs the local book store and is pretty content with his structured like. He is excited about his new shipment of books and can’t wait to read the ones he selected for himself. He is surprised that a beautiful woman pops out of one of the books. Andromeda Merriweather has lived a carefree life until she wrongs her sister. Her sister performs a spell to curse Andromeda into a magical time out inside a book. When Constantin opens the book Andromeda is surprised that he is so handsome. To break the curse she needs for Constantin to fall in love with her. The only problem she has is that she is falling in love with him as well. This is a great book with a wonderful story and well developed characters. The story flowed very well and was very enjoyable. I can’t wait for the next book by this awesome author!
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